Yamazaki Puncheon 2013 vs Miyagikyo 12 yo
Yes about time for something from somewhere else, and entry level for a change of pace.
Japanese Malts are certainly popular now. People forget they used to have a bargain end to the spectrum, back when it was only about Karuizawa.
Yamazaki Puncheon 2013 48%
Nose: Hmm. Lighter than light. Fruit sherbet, and fresh mown grass. Rather light creaminess too. Not a lot of wood but its there – wet wood. Also citrusy poaching syrup. And an open bag of candy.
Palate: Zingy and bright, and very clean. There’s some creamy, and some cedarwood maybe. Lots of high fruit esters and light white spices. Getting more sour.
Finish: Rather Short. Slightly sweet and citrus sour.
Yamazaki-lite? A puncheon is much bigger than a regular cask, so one expects less wood. Well, this is a decent light and lightly fruity whisky. Incidentally this was the last year of issue.
Miyagikyo 12yo 45% ~2014
Nose: Ha, the illusion of greath depth after the Yamazaki. A distinct earthy side, but still manages to be quite clean. Musty wood rubbed with spilt lamp oil. Also quite some leather and tobacco leaves. New mushrooms. And a sweet jam.
Palate: Exactly as suggested by the nose! Maybe more sweetness and red fruit. But this is all rather good!
Finish: Medium short, leather, damp paper.
Delivers. Not hugely complex, but well ordered, great arrival, and just great at 12years.
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